3D printing to pave a new pathway for Kenya

Posted on : Tuesday , 15th September 2020

The 3D printing industry continues to move towards industrialisation, and the technology is increasingly becoming part of the wider manufacturing ecosystem. With this rapidly evolving industry, it can be difficult to keep up with the key trends that are propelling the future of 3D printing.  

Though the 3D printing industry is still beginning  in Kenya, there has been a noticeble growth in the use of the innovation towards industrial challenges. From smartphones, body organs, furniture, food, medical equipment, aircraft spare parts  and clothing, 3D printing can be applied at almost any sphere of life to help manufacturers cut costs, boost production volumes and enhance quality of products.With this technology, a company could manufacture a whole car in one place or construct an entire house, eradicating the labour-intensive requirements of most physical projects.

 

Mehul Shah, chief executive of 3D firm UltraRed Technologies based on Limuru Road in Nairobi told Digital Business said "Because well designed prototypes can be accessed for free online, and the cost of materials is affordable, now is the time to use this opportunity to quickly adapt and create new products that can be used to cushion Kenyans from the current wave of job losses."

 

Kenya, despite being regarded as the technology powerhouse of Africa has an untapped potential in the mass adoption of 3D printing technology.

 

Mr Shah quoted "since the technology relies on simple tools, more players in the field should be inspired to help drive the Fourth Industrial Revolution in Kenya, especially in manufacturing, where advanced automation for better quality products is in high demand as business leaders seek for tech-based ways of surviving in the 'new normal'.